Mechanisms of species–people relationships in place attachment

Abstract Species are recognised as integral components of the natural environment. Yet, research on species such as the role of plants and animals as important placemakers within people–place relationships remains limited. As environmental change continues to redefine our relationship to places, species can offer a new perspective into the underlying mechanisms of a changing place, thereby informing more effective strategies to better support individual connections with nature. Here we examined the role of species in placemaking by using a survey of 95 individuals to explore people's connection to fairy penguins ( Eudyptula minor ) and muttonbirds ( Ardenna tenuirostris ) at the Neck on Bruny Island. Building on the person–process–place framework, we tested the various pathways in which species can influence our connection to places and conducted a path analysis to understand the intersection between species, people and place attachment. Our best fitting model shows support for species having a significant indirect role in place attachment. In particular, our model highlights that species contribute to placemaking through process‐oriented bonds. Our findings also indicate that species are not just static features of places, but that bonds with species may transfer or enable a sense of continuity to other places with shared social and physical characteristics. By quantitatively assessing the role of species in placemaking, the pathways revealed can inform actions to support people's attachment to place, anticipate the potential implications of place change on people–place relationships, and shape framing strategies for encouraging participation in conservation and stewardship initiatives. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.